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Wednesday, 10 September 2014

Honda HR-V

Honda has revealed the
first images of the brand's new European version of its small SUV ahead
of its world premiere at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The HR-V is Honda's
new entry into Europe's fast-growing small SUV segment.
The unique
exterior design of the new HR-V prototype echoes that of a coupé, with
sharp, dynamic lines that link the sleek upper body with the stable and
planted lower body. This coupé-esque elegance is achieved without
compromising the interior practicality of the car.
The HR-V
features a centre fuel tank location to create one of the most spacious
and adaptable small SUV cabins. Honda Magic Seats® make use of this
versatility by enabling a wide range of seating configurations, with the
ability to fold the second row seats completely flat for added cargo
space.

BMW 2-Series Convertible

(2015)

Kitted out with powerful engines, sophisticated chassis technology, finely balanced weight distribution and - uniquely in this class - rear-wheel drive, BMW is bringing an unmistakable brand of driving pleasure to the premium compact segment. Elegantly sporty design and an intense open-top motoring experience are the stand-out features of BMW Convertibles. And the BMW 2-Series Convertible brings together dynamic handling and refreshing open-air driving pleasure at a new level. The compact four-seater's powerful engine technology, athletic proportions, sweeping lines and hallmark "boat deck" character where the interior and exterior merge all raise the bar in its segment in terms of sporting and aesthetic appeal.
The BMW 2-Series Convertible follows in the tyre tracks of the pioneer and undisputed leader in its class: the BMW 1 Series Convertible entered the fray as the first open-top premium model in the compact segment, went on to defend its position as clear market leader against subsequent pretenders to its throne, and achieved sales figures in excess of 130,000 units worldwide. The development team for the new BMW 2-Series Convertible has focused squarely on building on the strengths which proved pivotal to this success. With even more grace, athleticism and sharpness about its design, clear advances in terms of acceleration, agility and efficiency, and improvements in the driving comfort, functionality and innovative equipment features it offers, the BMW 2-Series Convertible takes the qualities displayed by its predecessor to yet another level.

Elegance and openness in the established style of BMW Convertibles

The exterior design of the BMW 2-Series Convertible displays the typical characteristics of an open-top four-seater from the Bavarian brand. A sweeping silhouette accentuates the new model's elegance, while athletically formed surfaces underline its sporting qualities on the road. Once opened, the electrically operated fabric soft-top stows away fully into the rear of the car, allowing the shoulderline and soft-top compartment to merge harmoniously. As the two meet, they wrap a level surface around the passenger compartment that helps to give the car its distinctive "boat deck" character. The typically BMW set-back seating position allows a particularly refreshing open-top motoring experience - intense contact with the sun and wind is another keynote feature of Convertibles from BMW.
With a body stretching for 4,432 millimetres, the BMW 2-Series Convertible extends 108 millimetres further down the road than the BMW 1 Series and is also 72 millimetres longer than its direct predecessor, the BMW 1 Series Convertible. Its body width, wheelbase and track width likewise show notable increases over the previous model, making for distinctive, elegantly stretched, athletic proportions.

BMW 2-Series Convertible: blazing a trail for driving pleasure all over again

A
host of innovations on board the BMW 2-Series Convertible allow it to
break new ground in various areas. For example, the BMW M235i
Convertible - powered by a 240 kW/326 hp six-cylinder in-line engine -
is the first open-top member of the BMW M Performance Automobile
line-up. And the BMW 220d Convertible gives a diesel unit from the BMW
Group's new engine family its premiere in a compact BMW model. The 140
kW/190 hp teams up, as standard, with a likewise new six-speed manual
gearbox or, as an option, with a further developed eight-speed
Steptronic transmission.
The BMW 2-Series Convertible also leads
the way with a significant new innovation in the area of intelligent
connectivity. For the first time, map data for the optional Navigation
system Professional can be updated via a mobile phone connection - i.e.
(fittingly, given our open-top subject matter) "over the air".

The design: Athletic, elegant and open to thrills

The
familiar exterior design of Convertibles from BMW also announces the
presence of the brand's customary open-top driving pleasure in the
compact segment. The BMW 2-Series Convertible combines a low-slung
silhouette and dynamically stretched lines with compact proportions and
powerfully contoured surfaces, providing a showcase for the open-top
four-seater's sophisticated elegance and agile sporting ability. As with
the BMW 2-Series Coupe, its distinctive looks underline its standalone
status in the brand's model line-up and spotlight the dynamic potential,
intensive open-top driving experience and outstanding premium
characteristics that customers can expect. All in all, the eye-catching
features which mark the BMW 2-Series Convertible out from its rivals
need no second introduction.
Opening the soft-top roof highlights
the harmonious transition between the exterior and interior. The
shoulderline and soft-top compartment create a level surface that wraps
around the passenger compartment and evokes the distinctive "boat deck"
character of BMW Convertibles. The rollover bars, which remain out of
sight unless deployed as required, also contribute to an overall
impression dominated by large level surfaces. The design of the interior
is headlined by modern functionality, high-quality materials and the
driver focus for which BMW is renowned. And exclusive accents in the
centre console help to give the BMW 2-Series Convertible a refined
premium feel in keeping with the car's character.

Customers
tempted to look beyond standard specifications will be able to order
their BMW 2-Series Convertible in four special variants offering
carefully considered individualisation through the use of harmoniously
coordinated design and equipment features. The Advantage variant, for
example, offers customers features such as a multifunction steering
wheel, Cruise Control with braking function, Park Distance Control, a
storage package and front foglamps. The Sport Line and Luxury Line
variants add 17-inch light-alloy wheels in their own exclusive design,
ambient lighting with variable use of colours, a sliding armrest, plus
special door sill strips, seat upholstery, interior trim strips and car
key designs. And the M Sport model also comes with the equipment
features included in the Advantage variant, plus an M Sport package
developed specially for the BMW 2-Series Convertible.
The
surrounds for the outer air intakes, the front of the kidney grille
bars, the cross rib in the central air intake and the rear apron all
have a high-gloss black finish in the Sport Line variant. These details
join together with a reduction in the number of kidney grille bars from
11 to eight and an exhaust tailpipe embellisher in black chrome to
highlight the dynamic character of the BMW 2-Series Convertible. Sports
seats for the driver and front passenger, a specially styled instrument
cluster and a knee pad on the driver's side of the centre console
heighten the sense of sporting flair in the interior. The Luxury Line
variant fuses high-gloss chrome design elements with the Chrome Line
exterior package to create a classily elegant appearance. The exclusive
interior ambience is enhanced by interior trim strips in exquisite
Fineline Stream wood, including an accent strip in Oxide Silver, and a
sports leather steering wheel.
The M Sport package, which is part
of the M Sport variant, comprises bespoke suspension tuning (including a
10-millimetre drop in ride height and 17-inch M light-alloy wheels in
double-spoke design), aerodynamically optimised body elements (including
large front air intakes, eye-catching side skirts and a diffuser for
the rear apron), as well as a special design for the BMW kidney grille
and an exhaust tailpipe embellisher in high-gloss chrome. In addition to
aluminium door sill strips bearing the M logo, features such as sports
seats for the driver and front passenger, a sliding armrest, Aluminium
Hexagon interior trim strips with an accent strip in Estoril Blue, an M
leather steering wheel, a special dial design for the instrument
cluster, ambient lighting and an M driver's footrest also combine to
bring an intense aura of sporty driving to the interior of the BMW
2-Series Convertible.

Perfect
for relaxed city or out-of-town cruising, the BMW 2-Series Convertible
also offers dynamic performance that is impressive for a compact
open-top model, not to mention outstanding efficiency. These many
talents come courtesy of state-of-the-art engines with BMW TwinPower
Turbo technology, an extensive range of standard-fitted BMW
EfficientDynamics technologies, a typical BMW rear-wheel-drive set-up
and advanced chassis technology. All engine versions are more powerful
than their corresponding predecessors, while at the same time boasting
reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The power hike is anything up to
20 kW in each case, while fuel consumption has been reduced by an
average of 18 per cent. The chassis design and tuning is matched both to
the special needs of the convertible format and to the enhanced
performance. The new models also come with an unusually extensive range
of optional chassis systems. To sum up, the BMW 2-Series Convertible
combines maximum driving enjoyment in a premium compact-segment format
with an exhilarating open-top driving experience.
The market
launch of the BMW 2-Series Convertible will also mark the debut in a BMW
compact model of a four-cylinder diesel unit from the new BMW Group
engine family. This new 2.0-litre engine, fitted in the BMW 220d
Convertible, generates a maximum power of 140 kW/190 hp. Customers can
also choose between two four-cylinder petrol engines with 180 kW/245 hp
(in the BMW 228i Convertible) and 135 kW/184 hp (in the BMW 220i
Convertible). Completing the line-up is a six-cylinder in-line 240
kW/326 hp unit in the BMW M235i Convertible (see chapter 6). All the
engines can be combined with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission,
which is the only unit of its kind in the compact segment and which
brings further reductions in fuel consumption and emissions compared
with the standard six-speed manual unit.

Tuesday, 9 September 2014

Jaguar XE S

The Jaguar XE has been revealed to the world during a star-studded event held at Earls Court, London.
A true driver's car, the rear-drive Jaguar XE redefines the concept of the sports saloon thanks to its advanced lightweight construction, streamlined styling, luxurious interior, and outstanding ride and handling. The XE goes on sale in 2015, with the high-performance S model at the top of the range.
The XE S rewards drivers with the responsiveness and refinement of its supercharged 3.0-litre V6. Generating 340PS and 450Nm of torque, this high-revving engine is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift controls, giving the driver immediate access to the vehicle's incredible reserves of power. Accelerating to 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds, the XE S has an electronically-limited maximum speed of 155mph.
"Jaguar's position as the leading premium manufacturer of aluminium vehicles allowed us to develop a light, stiff body structure that is ground-breaking in its class. It enables the XE's advanced chassis technologies to deliver an unprecedented balance of agility and levels of refinement previously found only in vehicles from the segments above." Kevin Stride, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar XE
The aluminium-intensive Jaguar XE is the first model developed from Jaguar Land Rover's new modular vehicle architecture and will set the standard for driving dynamics in the midsize segment. The long wheelbase and low seating position enable perfect proportions and a streamlined, coupe-like profile.

The S model's large front air intakes, chrome side vents, discreet rear spoiler and optional 20-inch forged alloy wheels hint at the performance potential of Jaguar's supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine.
The cabin offers outstanding levels of comfort and spaciousness. Exquisite materials and finishes, combined with traditional Jaguar craftsmanship make this an interior like nothing else in the class.
The XE S will be joined by other models powered by highly efficient 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines matched to smooth-shifting six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions. The diesels - part of Jaguar's all-new Ingenium engine family - provide exemplary fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from 75mpg and 99g/km.
The XE is also the lightest, stiffest and most aerodynamic Jaguar saloon ever built. It is also the first Jaguar to be equipped with electric power steering, tuned to provide exceptional responsiveness and feel but with lower energy consumption than hydraulic systems. The XE boasts the lowest cost of ownership of any Jaguar and is also the most environmentally sustainable.
The aluminium-intensive Jaguar XE is manufactured at Jaguar Land Rover's Solihull plant in an all-new purpose-built facility. Part of a £1.5bn investment, this highly flexible, state-of-the-art manufacturing site will create 1,700 UK jobs.
The XE now completes the Jaguar saloon car range sitting below the XF and XJ models.

Compelling design: Form and function without compromise

The Jaguar XE was developed in parallel with the new modular architecture. The architecture unlocks design possibilities that did not exist before because the core dimensions were determined by design and engineering working together from the very beginning, under a philosophy of 'anything we can imagine, we can create.'
This makes it possible to realise perfect proportions: short front overhang, longer rear overhang and dynamic, cab-rearward stance. The architecture also enables the XE to feature both a low, sporty driving position and a sleek, coupe-like profile
The strongly-sculpted bonnet creates a taut, muscular appearance. The rising waistline adds to the sense of movement, while the form of the rear quarters takes inspiration from the F-Type Coupé. The signature J-Blade running lights are another instantly recognisable Jaguar design element. In the rear lights, a horizontal line intersecting a roundel is a powerful styling feature inherited from the iconic E-Type.
Jaguar has a rich history of producing stunning, aerodynamically-efficient cars. The new XE continues the tradition of uncompromised form and function: its streamlined shape has the lowest drag coefficient of any Jaguar yet - just 0.26. This achievement is the result of 1,200 computational fluid dynamics simulations and more than eight million hours of processor time.
"Our mission was to create an exciting and dynamic design clearly reflecting the XE's positioning as a serious driver's car. The cab-rearward proportions and tight packaging achieve that and give the XE the appearance of movement even when it's standing still. It bears a strong family resemblance to the F-Type and will stand apart in the crowd." Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design
Expectations created by the XE's exterior styling are more than met once inside. The spacious cabin cocoons front seat passengers with a deep centre console which creates a cockpit-like feel. The F-Type-style dials and the cluster needle sweep on start-up further emphasise the XE's sports saloon attributes.
Front and rear seat occupants enjoy generous amounts of head and legroom - the XE proves that sleek, streamlined styling and interior space need not be mutually exclusive. Technical fabrics, fine-grain leathers and details such as contrasting twin-needle stitching give the cabin a bespoke quality. The choice of gloss black, textured aluminium, and contemporary wood veneers enhance the luxurious, hand-crafted feel. Ambient lighting in a range of up to 10 colours adds to the sense of occasion.

Powertrains: Smooth, refined, efficient

The new XE is powered by a range of four- and six-cylinder all-aluminium petrol and diesel engines offering an impressive blend of performance, refinement and fuel efficiency with a breadth of capability.
For customers demanding ultimate performance and an exhilarating engine note from idle right up to the redline there's the XE S, which shares its supercharged 3.0-litre V6 with the acclaimed F-Type.
Spray-guided direct injection and fully variable valve timing optimise power and torque throughout the rev range. The 90° cylinder bank angle provides space for the twin-vortex Roots-type supercharger, a balancer shaft ensures smooth running.
Developing 340PS/450Nm, the V6 provides the XE S with exceptional acceleration and performance: 0-60mph takes just 4.9 seconds, and top speed is electronically-limited to 155mph.
Jaguar is launching the XE with a new family of world-class engines - Ingenium. This advanced in-house modular design began from a clean sheet and is manufactured at Jaguar Land Rover's new £500 million UK Engine Manufacturing Centre.
Proven over 2 million miles of real-world testing, Ingenium is the cornerstone of Jaguar's future low-CO2 powertrain strategy and is engineered to deliver benchmark fuel efficiency, refinement and performance. It will also meet the most stringent exhaust emissions legislation worldwide.
The first Ingenium engines to come off the line are 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesels. Clean combustion, variable exhaust valve timing and sophisticated exhaust gas aftertreatment ensure Euro 6 compliance and take the XE's CO2 emissions as low as 99g/km in the case of the 163PS/380Nm variant. More powerful versions will be available too, combining exceptional fuel economy and even greater responsiveness.
"Ingenium is a new family of compact, lightweight, low-friction, low-emissions engines that will deliver both the efficiency and performance that our global customers desire. Ingenium will make the new XE the most fuel efficient Jaguar ever - and the greenest." Ron Lee, Jaguar Land Rover Group Chief Engineer, Powertrain
The 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection petrol engines are powerful and refined and generate strong torque from low speeds, ensuring excellent launch performance and mid-range response. Two ratings will be available in the XE, and both will be offered with a lighter version of the ZF 8HP automatic used in the rest of the Jaguar range: this benchmark eight-speed transmission is controlled using Jaguar's unique rotary shift selector.
Ingenium diesels will also be available with a highly efficient six-speed manual - low viscosity oil and pseudo dry-sump lubrication cut parasitic losses. All of the XE's transmissions are characterised by exceptionally smooth, quiet shifts.

Better connected: All-new infotainment system

The
XE's all-new InControl infotainment system offers the latest
technologies to connect car, driver and the outside world. At its heart
is an eight-inch touchscreen featuring a clear, intuitive graphical
interface and fast response times.
Voice control using plain
speech gives access to any level of the system, without navigating
through menus, so drivers can keep their eyes on the road. InControl's
SD card-based navigation allows easy upgrades of map data. The system
also supports Bluetooth, audio streaming and USB connectivity.
Smartphones
are changing the way people interact with the world around them so the
new XE ensures that drivers always stay connected. The car functions as a
Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling multiple devices to connect to the internet -
the vehicle antenna provides the best possible signal.
Jaguar
InControl Remote functionality allows users of iOS and Android
smartphones to connect to the car from wherever they are and control a
range of vehicle functions. These include seven-day timed pre-setting of
the XE's climate control system, locking or unlocking the doors, or
starting the engine. Jaguar InControl Apps allows users to seamlessly
access smartphone apps through the vehicle's touchscreen.
"For
up-to-the-minute parking information, to conference calls, hotel
bookings to traffic warnings, InControl Apps can all be accessed with a
touch of the screen. Simplifying your connected experience without
compromising your interactive options: the new XE is a
technologically-advanced step you'll want to take." Dr Mike Bell,
Jaguar's Global Connected Car Director
For drivers who just want
to sit back and enjoy the music, the new XE brings Meridian audio
technology to the segment for the first time. These superb systems are
the latest product of the long-standing partnership between Jaguar and
British audio experts Meridian and were developed specifically for the
new XE. Unique algorithms guarantee the best possible sound reproduction
and tailor the experience to the interior's acoustics.

Active safety: Intelligent technologies to support the driver

The
new XE's light, stiff bodystructure has been engineered to meet the
most demanding legislative and consumer crash test requirements
worldwide. Complementing the outstanding levels of protection it offers
is a suite of advanced driver assistance systems designed to help and
support the driver, making every journey safer, more relaxing and even
more enjoyable.
The XE is the first car in the world to be
equipped with All Surface Progress Control (ASPC). This all-new system,
developed with the input of decades of Jaguar Land Rover experience in
off-road traction systems, works like a low-speed cruise control. ASPC
functions between 3.6km/h and 30km/h: by precisely controlling the brake
system and the powertrain it delivers optimum traction in the most
slippery conditions without skidding and without the driver using the
pedals.
Projecting high-contrast colour images onto the
windscreen, the laser head-up display (HUD) technology provides the
driver with information such as speed and navigation instructions with
maximum clarity and minimum distraction. As well as superb image
quality, the laser HUD is smaller and almost a third lighter than
existing systems.
Jaguar is one of the first manufacturers in the
segment to use stereo camera technology. This state-of-the-art sensor is
the 'eyes' of the XE's autonomous emergency braking system, providing
highly accurate measurements of speed and distance of objects ahead, and
can initiate full braking to avoid or mitigate a collision.
The
stereo camera performs traffic sign recognition and lane departure
warning functions too. The XE also offers systems such as adaptive
cruise control, closing vehicle sensing, blind spot monitoring,
semi-automated parallel and bay parking, and reverse traffic detection.